Australian senator Scott Ryan has stated that concerned parties in the East Sea must respect and act in line with international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

In a recent letter to the Viet Nam Entrepreneurs Association in Australia, Ryan said that the Australian Government hailed speeches on the East Sea situation made at the 24^th ASEAN Summit in Myanmar on May 10-11.

A Chinese coast guard ship rammed into the left side of a Vietnamese ship (Photo: VNA)

Australia shares ASEAN’s great concern about recent developments in the East Sea that have escalated the tension in the region, he said, adding that his country is not talking sides but has an interest in maintaining peace and stability, respecting international law and assuring maritime freedom.

Australia urges all parties to exercise restraint and avoid provocative acts which may worsen the situation. The Governments need to clarify and follow territorial declarations and maritime rules in line with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS.

China and ASEAN member countries also need to promptly conclude a Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC), he stressed.

Earlier, the Australia-Viet Nam Friendship Association sent a letter to Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop expressing its opposition to China’s acts in the East Sea and suggested the Australian Government take necessary measures to protect regional peace and security.

(Source: VNA)